U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is expanding the Family Expedited Removal Management program. The expansion targets unlawful immigration of asylum-seeking families at the U.S. southern border. The Biden administration aims to strengthen measures against unauthorized immigration.

The program, which began in four cities in May, is now being extended to other locations across the country, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Under this initiative, heads of household wear GPS ankle bracelets and follow a daily curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. until their asylum eligibility is screened in an alternative to detention program.

The expansion cities have not yet been specified. However, the program has already grown to 13 cities since its initial rollout. It is expected to reach 40 cities by September 2023. Recent additions include cities like San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Boston, Providence, New Orleans, and Houston.

Initially, individuals are referred to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for asylum screening. Families found ineligible for asylum are removed from the U.S. within 30 days of enrolling in the program. The Family Expedited Removal Management program was announced the day before the Biden administration ended Title 42, a COVID-19 pandemic border restriction that facilitated the swift removal of certain migrants.

This program is part of the broader approach of the Biden administration to address the challenges of historic migration and record numbers of migrants arriving at the southern border. The administration stresses consequences for migrants who do not use approved “pathways” to enter the U.S. and has imposed conditions that limit asylum eligibility.

The administration’s border management strategy is currently facing court challenges. The Ninth Circuit put on hold a district court order blocking limits on asylum eligibility. Additionally, a bench trial is scheduled in a suit challenging the legality of the parole program.

For now, the administration’s measures, including expedited removal under Title 8 immigration procedures, a five-year reentry ban, and potential criminal prosecution for repeated attempts to cross the border unlawfully, remain in place for those who do not comply with the approved immigration protocols.

ILBSG actively monitors ongoing news and updates on U.S. immigration. We work with our clients in their specific situations to ensure they get the right advice. Contact us if you have any immigration-related questions.

asylum Expedited removal